A Comprehensive Guide for Colombian Citizens Navigating International Health Insurance
As a Colombian, you're used to excellent, easy-to-access healthcare. The World Health Organization ranks Colombia's public health care system as the 22nd most efficient out of 191 countries. But if you're going abroad, you may find that not all countries offer the same standard of care.
Colombia doesn't have any reciprocal healthcare agreements with other countries. So if you need medical help abroad, the Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS) public health insurance won't cover your fees. If you have a private plan, it might cover you for 90 days, but there may be limitations.
You want to be able to receive high-quality medical care no matter where you choose to live. To make sure you're covered and won't receive any surprise healthcare bills, you'll want to buy specific health insurance for Colombian expats. Knowing you're protected will give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your time living abroad.
As a Colombian, you're used to excellent, easy-to-access healthcare. The World Health Organization ranks Colombia's public health care system as the 22nd most efficient out of 191 countries. But if you're going abroad, you may find that not all countries offer the same standard of care.
Colombia doesn't have any reciprocal healthcare agreements with other countries. So if you need medical help abroad, the Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS) public health insurance won't cover your fees. If you have a private plan, it might cover you for 90 days, but there may be limitations.
You want to be able to receive high-quality medical care no matter where you choose to live. To make sure you're covered and won't receive any surprise healthcare bills, you'll want to buy specific health insurance for Colombian expats. Knowing you're protected will give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your time living abroad.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes and coverage options
- Work with an insurance expert at no additional cost
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
Medical Insurance Plans for Colombians Abroad
Health insurance plans can vary greatly depending on where you're from, where you're going, how long you'll be there, and what kind of benefits you want. For instance, if you're moving to the United States, you'll probably need a different plan than if you're going to Spain. It's important to look at all the options to make sure you're getting the right plan for you.
Recommended Medical Insurance Plans for Colombians Abroad
Cigna International Insurance serves foreigners living abroad in more than 200 countries. They offer three levels of coverage, and each plan can be adjusted to suit your needs. Cigna's plans cover a wide range of medical needs, including hospital stays and mental health care.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
- Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
- The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
IMG Global Medical Insurance is a great choice for those living and working abroad. Though it may cost a bit more than some other options, IMG provides extremely comprehensive plans. They come with plenty of opportunities for customization. Plus, their plans cover vaccinations and preventative care, so you're protected before you travel.
Recommended Health Insurance Plan for Colombians in the US
The type of health insurance you'll need outside of Colombia will heavily depend on your destination. In the United States, healthcare costs are significantly more expensive than what you're used to seeing in Colombia.
Without insurance, a visit to a physician's office averages $100 - $200 USD. If you need emergency care from a hospital, your bill could quickly add up to more than $6,000 USD. We recommend carrying private Colombian expat health insurance when visiting the United States.
Also Read: How Much Does Healthcare Cost in the USA?
GeoBlue Xplorer Essential and Premier plans will offer you peace of mind when traveling through the United States. These plans are specifically designed for non-U.S. residents moving to the United States. The plans guarantee no waiting periods, no deductibles for certain services and access to the Blue Cross Blue Shield network through the Premier plan.
Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan
- Premium Benefits, Coverage and Service
- Define your deductible and prescription benefits
- For Foreigners in the US or US citizens abroad
If you'll be living in the U.S. states of New York, Maryland, Washington or North Dakota, GeoBlue Xplorer plans aren't available. Both IMG and Cigna, listed above, also offer plans for living in the U.S.
Why Colombian Expats Need International Health Insurance
Colombia doesn't have any reciprocal healthcare agreements with other countries. This means the EPS public health insurance plan only provides coverage within Colombia. If you need healthcare while abroad, you will be expected to pay for any services out-of-pocket. Medical insurance for Colombian citizens living abroad is crucial to avoid unexpected bills.
In Colombia, it's relatively easy to sign up for the public system. But in other places, it might not be so simple. Not all countries have universal healthcare, and even if they do, there could be rules or waiting times to join. Also, think about what your insurance covers. While EPS in Colombia covers lab tests, specialist visits, and more, other countries might not have such thorough coverage.
Without insurance, you might face expensive medical bills and long waits to see a doctor. Plus, you might struggle to find someone who speaks your native language. But with global health insurance, shorter wait times and language services are the norm. You can also access top private hospitals and the high-quality care you're used to.
What To Look For in Colombian Expat Health Insurance
When selecting your health insurance plan, you'll want one that can offer you the same great care that you are used to receiving in Colombia. Luckily, most plans can be customized to suit your budget and needs. You should consider the types of benefits you want, the length of your plan and any deductibles or copays.
We can provide you with quotes from different insurers, that you can review side-by-side to find the one that is best for you and your needs. Simply choosing the provider offering the lowest rates is fine, but keep in mind that you may need to pay more out-of-pocket if something goes wrong. You'll want to carefully select a plan that will cover your specific international healthcare needs.
How to Access Healthcare Abroad
Before moving abroad, you'll want to research the healthcare systems of your destination. You should know if the country uses a public system, private, or mixed. If there is a public scheme, you'll want to know what sort of treatments and care are included.
Most countries with public schemes will require you to register with the relevant authorities. There are often wait times or eligibility requirements you need to meet. In some countries, once you have proof of paying taxes, you're eligible for coverage. In others, you might need to wait over a year to meet the requirements.
You'll also want to consider language barriers. Being a native Spanish speaker, you have 20 other countries you can visit in the world without needing to worry about language barriers. But what about countries where nobody speaks Spanish? Many global health plans include 24/7 helplines. These include translation services to ensure there is no confusion over a medical concern.
Government Recommendations for Colombian Expats Abroad
The Colombian Government provides a few services to improve the quality of life of Colombians and their families abroad. Some highlights include:
- The Colombian Security Abroad Program allows Colombians living abroad to contribute to the national pension program. This is a great way to save for retirement if you're not eligible for plans in your adopted country.
- Virtual Training Video Conferences are organized with different groups to keep Colombians abroad competitive in various markets, both personally and professionally.
- Loans and scholarship programs are available to support studies outside of Colombia, as well as institutes to accreditate any degrees or programs completed abroad.
How Colombian Expats Can Get Healthcare When Visiting Colombia
In Colombia, you use your identification (cédula) number to access the public healthcare system. This document is mandatory for all citizens over the age of 18. Likewise, your cédula must be valid if you need consular assistance while outside the country. As long as your cédula is not expired, you'll be able to access the public system when you return home.
However, if you prefer the private system, you'll need to check if your health insurance for Colombian citizens living abroad is accepted. This will depend on the type of plan you purchased.
If you are living in a single destination outside the country, you might consider the Cigna Close Care plan for your insurance needs. This plan offers coverage in both your home country as well as one other country. This means you'll be able to access top-notch private healthcare services in your destination country as well as during short trips back to Colombia.
Recommended Travel Medical Insurance for Colombian Expats Visiting Colombia
You might choose to carry insurance that doesn't cover you in Colombia. And you might let your home coverage lapse since you're not spending much time there. If this is the case, you'll want to secure travel medical insurance for short trips home.
Safe Travels International
- Desinged for non-U.S. citizens traveling outside their home country (excluding the U.S.)
- Coverage for an unexpected recurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition
- Coverage from 5 days to 364 days - extensions are available
Essential Considerations for Colombian Expats
Not every country has the same easily accessible and high-quality care that Colombia offers its citizens. Depending on your destination, healthcare might be expensive or the hospitals overcrowded. Treatment may not be available in your language. That's why it's really important for Colombian citizens living abroad to have health insurance. It makes sure you're covered and supported while you're away.
Cigna, IMG and GeoBlue Xplorer Essential and Premier are some of the best plans for Colombian expats abroad. These plans offer comprehensive and customizable plans.
Healthcare Coverage and Peace of Mind
Having health insurance is crucial for Colombian expats living abroad. While Colombia boasts excellent healthcare, not all countries offer the same level of care or accessibility. Without insurance, you might run into language barriers, have long waits to see a doctor or end up with expensive medical bills.
Getting global health insurance made for Colombian expats means you'll have access to high-quality care, shorter waits, and support in your native language. A global medical plan can offer you peace of mind while you're away from Colombia. Make sure you're covered so you can focus on enjoying your time abroad without worrying about your health.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes and coverage options
- Work with an insurance expert at no additional cost
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
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- Tips to Help You Start Your Expat Journey
- Accessing Medical Care Abroad
- Differences Between Health and Travel Insurance
Author: Elizabeth Baugh is a content editor at International Citizens Insurance. She is writer specializing in education, travel, health, and wellness topics. With over a decade of international living and travel experience, Elizabeth is an expert in the realms of international travel, moving abroad, insurance, and immigration.